Editorials

Many of us have had friends and loved ones who have served America in one of the branches of the United States Armed Forces. And we are thankful for their service, and the service of other veterans, to this country.

Within seven days, seven people were killed in motor vehicle crashes around the state. One of those wrecks happened close to home: A Northwest College student and two French tourists were killed in a head-on collision south of Meeteetse on May 8.

They’re often scorned, ridiculed and under-appreciated. They’re also often our first, last and only line of defense against the dark underbelly of a community, serving as watchdogs, domestic dispute referees and the voice of reason during highly-charged situations and events. They respond to fire calls and car crashes, offer directions to lost motorists and assist during events like parades and funeral processions. They’re a constant and reassuring presence whenever large groups of people are assembled, whether it’s at sporting events or county fairs.

Oil and natural gas production and prices have bounced back in Wyoming. In Park County, it looks like our property tax base grew by perhaps 12 percent last year, spurred in large part by more mineral production, though also by rising home values.